I’m a bit under the weather this week and in a lazy, sleepy mood. So with nothing else to do, I figured I’d catch up on book reviewing!

One of the latest books I read was Lynn Austin’s Where We Belong. Her books have always left me thankful for Christian writers who can create unique characters that are full of depth. No offense to Christian fiction, but I feel that it often loses meaning and does not achieve that standard of excellency that comes with writing a novel.

That being said, Where We Belong did not disappoint. With each new book, Ms. Austin puts out I am continually amazed.

This book, in particular, had a different feel to it, as it took place in both America, Israel, and Egypt. The story beings with two sisters (they’re based on real people! check out this article to read about the real sisters https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/how-lady-bible-hunters-made-the-victorian-eras-most-stunning-scriptural-find) who defy the social norm of their time by traveling to the Sinai Desert to look for ancient Biblical manuscripts. In true Lynn Austin fashion, the book switches perspectives as the characters tell the story of how they got to be in this desert.

What I liked most about this book was that everyone’s backstory, even that of the two sisters who grew up together, was distinctly their own. Flora sounded like the sweet lady she is, Becky’s voice most definitely fit her strong intellectual personality, Kate came off as her fiery redheaded self, and Soren was the serious but caring fellow he is.

Honestly, I admire each character very deeply. Traveling on camels through the Sinai desert?! Learning at least four languages fluently?! Escaping life-threatening situations through prayer and grit?! Having rock-solid faith in the worst of moments?! What’s not to love?

Since the story does center around an archeological expedition, it included some very interesting historical background for the expeditions that took place in the story (and in real life). In the late 1800s and early 1900s, intellectuals really became aware of the rich historical evidence for the Bible. Without these amazing people, we would not have the countless artifacts and manuscripts we do today backing the truth of God’s word.

All that being said, I highly recommend Where We Belong if you’re looking for a little adventure, history, romance, and archeology in your next read!

(The cover image is mine, and all college pictures are from Pinterest.)